Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese Recipe
Introduction
This Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese is a creamy, comforting twist on a classic favorite. Using cottage cheese adds protein and a delightful tang while keeping the dish rich and smooth. It’s simple to make and perfect for a quick family meal.
Ingredients
- 8 oz dry pasta (shells or macaroni)
- 1 cup whole milk cottage cheese
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 1/2 tsp kosher salt (plus more for seasoning)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta cooking water
Instructions
- Step 1: Boil the pasta in salted water until al dente. Before draining, save 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water for the sauce.
- Step 2: Return the drained pasta to the pot. Over low heat, stir in the milk, cottage cheese, shredded cheddar, and garlic powder until the cheese melts and the mixture is smooth.
- Step 3: Gradually add the reserved pasta water to the pot to achieve a creamy sauce consistency. Season with salt and additional spices like paprika, black pepper, or onion powder if desired.
- Step 4: Serve the mac and cheese immediately while warm and creamy.
Tips & Variations
- Use whole milk cottage cheese for a richer, creamier texture and avoid low-fat versions.
- Try adding a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce for extra flavor.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute with gluten-free pasta.
- If you prefer a softer cheese sauce, add more reserved pasta water or milk gradually.
- Add cooked vegetables like peas or spinach for extra nutrition.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess if needed.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese instead of cheddar?
Yes, you can substitute with cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a cheese blend, but sharp cheddar provides the best classic flavor and melt.
Is it necessary to save pasta cooking water for the sauce?
Reserving pasta water helps thin and smooth the sauce due to its starch content, making it creamier without diluting flavor.
PrintCottage Cheese Mac and Cheese Recipe
A healthier twist on classic mac and cheese using creamy cottage cheese combined with sharp cheddar and pasta shells, creating a deliciously smooth and cheesy meal that’s quick to make and comforting to eat.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 oz dry pasta (shells or macaroni)
Cheese Sauce
- 1 cup whole milk cottage cheese
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 1/2 tsp kosher salt (plus more for seasoning)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta cooking water
Instructions
- Boil Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta shells or macaroni until al dente according to package instructions. Before draining, reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water for later use.
- Prepare Cheese Sauce: Return the drained pasta to the pot over low heat. Add the milk, whole milk cottage cheese, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, and garlic powder. Stir gently until the cheeses melt and combine with the milk and pasta.
- Smooth Sauce: Gradually add the reserved pasta water while stirring to achieve a smooth, creamy sauce consistency. Adjust the amount of pasta water as needed to your preferred creaminess.
- Season: Season the mac and cheese with kosher salt to taste. Optionally, add other spices like paprika, black pepper, or onion powder to enhance the flavor according to your preference.
- Serve: Once the sauce is creamy and well combined with the pasta, remove from heat and serve immediately for the best texture and taste.
Notes
- Note 1: Using shell or macaroni pasta helps hold the cheese sauce nicely, but any small pasta shape works.
- Note 3: Whole milk cottage cheese provides creaminess – low-fat versions can be used but may change texture.
- Reserve some pasta water to ensure the cheese sauce is smooth and not clumpy.
- Add spices gradually to taste for personalized flavor.
Keywords: mac and cheese, cottage cheese recipe, easy mac and cheese, creamy pasta, healthier mac and cheese
